Big changes are brewing – literally and figuratively – on Jackson Street in downtown Franklin.
Two beloved establishments, Blue Cactus and Shale Creek Brewing, have entered a new chapter, thanks to the shared vision of local entrepreneurs and the continued support of the community. At the center of this transformation are Fred Paris, property owner and developer; Jose Murillo and his brother Ismael Murillo; and Shale Creek Brewing Founders Mike and Jenni Baker.
Fred Paris, known for his ongoing investment in Franklin’s development, recently expanded the pavilion space behind the buildings that house both restaurants. This upgrade came with new brewing equipment and additional space that allowed for a major shift; Shale Creek Brewing has now moved entirely into the pavilion, operating independently from the restaurant, which is now known as Shale Creek Pub and managed by Jose Murillo.
For Jose Murillo, this is a meaningful next step. He and Ismael are already well-known in the community for launching Blue Cactus, a vibrant Mexican restaurant that opened in 2023 and quickly found its footing thanks to a unique concept and a focus on authenticity.
“Our menu at Blue Cactus was created by Chef Victor Conrique,” Jose Murillo explains. “We specialize in tacos with homemade corn tortillas and our signature craft margaritas made with 100% natural fruits. The Franklin community welcomed us with open arms, and we’ve been blown away by the support.”
The opportunity to take over the restaurant formerly connected to Shale Creek Brewing came from an existing partnership and deep mutual respect between Jose, Paris, and the Bakers. As Mike and Jenni stepped back from the restaurant side of the business to focus solely on brewing, Jose stepped up to take over the kitchen and front-of-house operation, rebranding it as Shale Creek Pub.
“The menu at Shale Creek will stay the same,” Murillo assures. “We plan to add a few new items, but we want to keep the same style and feel that customers have always loved. And yes, Mike’s beers will still be on tap. He’s done an amazing job and we’re proud to serve his brews.”
Mike and Jenni Baker, who founded Shale Creek Brewing in 2016, say the decision to refocus on brewing came after years of growth and learning.
“When we started, we had zero restaurant or brewery experience,” Mike Baker says. “But we built something special with the help of an incredible staff and a lot of passion. Over time, though, we found ourselves spending more time managing a restaurant than doing what we loved – brewing beer.”
The recent pavilion expansion has allowed Mike to reclaim that focus. The brewing system has been relocated to the new space, allowing for physical separation from the restaurant. With more room for brewing, storage and additional seating, Shale Creek Brewing is now set to increase its production.
“In the future we’re looking at transitioning some of our fermentation tanks from five-barrel to 10-barrel systems,” Mike says. “That kind of capacity could even open the door for limited distribution. It’s exciting.”
While the brewing and restaurant operations are now under separate management, both businesses remain deeply connected – both physically and through a shared dedication to quality and community.
Paris, who helped orchestrate the transition, deserves credit for creating an environment where this collaboration could flourish. His investment in the pavilion and his ongoing support of small-business owners has turned this corner of Franklin into a hub of local flavor, energy and innovation.
“The opportunity that Fred gave us made Blue Cactus, and now Shale Creek Pub, possible,” Murillo says. “He believed in our concept from the beginning.”
Mike and Jenni echo that sentiment, calling the transition a win-win for everyone involved, especially the Franklin community.
“Jose and his family bring excellence and experience to the restaurant industry,” Baker says. “Their values align with ours and we’re confident the restaurant is in great hands. We’re just excited to keep brewing great beer and being part of the events at the amphitheater right next door.”
And that connection to Franklin is what makes it all so special. Everyone involved, from the Bakers to the Murillos to Fred Paris, has a strong bond with this town, its people and its future.
“We love being a part of downtown Franklin,” Baker says with a smile. “This is our hometown. Our customers are our friends and neighbors. We’re looking forward to this next chapter – brewing beer, enjoying concerts and being Franklin’s hometown brewery.”
As the community continues to grow and evolve, so too does its culinary and craft beer scene. With Jose and Ismael Murillo now managing both Blue Cactus and Shale Creek Pub, and with Shale Creek Brewing entering a new phase of expansion, Franklin has more reason than ever to celebrate local business.
So next time you find yourself downtown, stop by. Grab a handcrafted margarita at Blue Cactus, enjoy dinner at Shale Creek Pub, and toast to the future with a locally brewed beer in the pavilion – because in Franklin, the best things happen when neighbors work together.
